Contralateral approach to carotid cave aneurysms.

BACKGROUND

To evaluate the surgical approach and clipping of aneurysms located at the carotid cave region.

METHOD: Between 1980 and 1998 we have adopted the well known ipsilateral approach for exposure and securing of carotid cave aneurysms. In four patients, we had the opportunity to use a contralateral approach to carotid cave aneurysms, with easier dissection and application of a simple aneurysmal clip. The visual acuity of the patients did not deteriorate from the pre-operative level.

FINDING AND INTERPRETATION: Aneurysms located at the carotid cave region may be approached easily and safely through a contralateral craniotomy with application of the aneurysm clip from an angle medial and inferior to the optic nerve.